The Delhi Police has formally assured the Delhi High Court that it will provide the “best possible protection” to the family members of a 26-year-old man, Tarun, who died following a violent clash during Holi celebrations in Southwest Delhi’s Uttam Nagar.
The assurance comes in response to a plea filed by the deceased’s family, who identified themselves as “key witnesses” in the ongoing criminal case. The petitioners alleged they are facing “continuous and grave threats” to their lives from the accused individuals, their families, and associates, aimed at coercing them into withdrawing from the legal proceedings.
In an order passed on April 23, Justice Girish Kathpalia took proactive steps to ensure the safety of the witnesses. The court directed the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) to instruct the local Station House Officer (SHO) to provide his personal mobile phone number to the petitioners. This measure is intended to allow the family to contact the high-ranking officer directly in the event of distress.
Counsel representing the Delhi Police informed the court that several security measures are already operational. These include:
- The installation of CCTV cameras near the petitioners’ residence.
- The deployment of police pickets to maintain communal harmony, with one specifically stationed directly in front of the family’s home.
- Active monitoring by local police personnel.
The petitioners, represented by senior advocate P.K. Dubey, detailed specific instances of harassment. They alleged that on April 13, unknown women with their faces covered approached and threatened the mother of the deceased.
Addressing these concerns, the police stated that relevant material, including video footage of the alleged intimidation, has been collected and is currently being examined. An inquiry into these threats will be conducted by an officer of the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP).
Furthermore, the court was briefed on the digital fallout of the incident. Authorities have already pulled down more than 250 inflammatory videos and posts from various social media platforms to prevent further escalation. Justice Kathpalia directed the petitioners to provide specific details of any other provocative content to the local SHO for immediate action.
The case stems from a March 4 incident in Uttam Nagar, where a longstanding dispute between two neighboring families escalated into a violent clash during Holi celebrations. The conflict resulted in the death of 26-year-old Tarun. Following the incident, the Delhi Police apprehended several individuals, including a minor.
The family now seeks the court’s protection to ensure that the judicial process can proceed without interference or fear of retribution.
